1992 Honda Civic LX review from North America

Lots of little things that have proved to be very expensive have unexpectedly gone. I have replaced the radiator, distributor, and ignition control module. I have had it tuned up three times in less than two years, plus a number of expensive under the hood jobs. It makes a strange grinding noise when it's cold (which no one can figure out). The gears stick and jam, and reverse is almost impossible to get into unless you pull through all the gears first. (A bit of credit should be given to the fact that it is the original clutch and gearbox). The auto locks broke the second week I had her, and the doors don't operate all too smoothly.

All and all I have to say I love my civic. We have done many miles on the road solo. On nice days with a full tank of gas when she doesn't feel like breaking down she is a dream to drive. She is the first car I purchased on my own, and most likely the reason for my love despite the problems and expenses.

However, when the air conditioning is on the car struggles to do 40 mph. Hills are a joke for my poor little civic, which does her best in 3rd gear on a long hill pushing 35mph, with 125lb me alone in the car, the engine roars and the heat rises in the dead of Vermont winters. Highway travel is livable, if you don't want to get anywhere too fast. Over 70 mph she gets jumpy and very loud.

I purchased this car 2 years ago for a fair price from a man who seemed to take excellent care of her, and reported no problems except the exhaust system, which he fully replaced at 60K. I am a college student on a tight budget trying to find an economical, reliable car. I bought a civic expecting 200k miles, with very few problems. I am now selling it with 137K and have almost doubled what I paid for it in the first place. Despite my meticulous oil changes with high mileage oil and my gentle nature towards her. I think I might have bought a lemon. :- (I am trying not to let this experience ruin my opinion of the brand.